The Brooklyn Nets’ potential acquisition of Kyrie Irving would come at a cost, according to a report.
SNY’s Ian Begley says if the Nets sign Irving, D’Angelo Russell would be unlikely to remain with the team.
Brooklyn has big plans this summer and already made a trade to clear significant cap space for a second free agent. Irving is reportedly interested in the team and may have switched agents with the idea of moving to Brooklyn.
If Brooklyn were to get the sense they could sign both Irving and another free agent, like Kevin Durant — which would be a dream scenario — they might consider rescinding their qualifying offer to Russell, who is a restricted free agent. Rescinding their offer would give them the salary cap space needed to sign two big-time players. If Russell becomes available, the Indiana Pacers are among the numerous teams that reportedly would have interest in signing him.
Russell is coming off a breakout season in which he averaged 21.1 points and 7.0 assists per game and made his first All-Star team. The 23-year-old former No. 2 pick is an emerging player, while Irving, 27, is more established in the league.
